Is Ashwagandha safe during pregnancy ? There is less data available about the safety of consuming ashwagandha during pregnancy. In addition, unregulated supplements such as ashwagandha make it difficult to determine the precise composition of the product.
Undoubtedly, pregnancy may cause discomfort, and it is advised to avoid the use of certain widely-used over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications during this period. However, what is the status of medical plants such as ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is often promoted as a remedy for several ailments, including typical pregnancy issues such as sleeplessness, discomfort, and stress.
Similar to other supplements, ashwagandha is not subject to regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which may result in variations in contents or strength between different manufacturers.
Insufficient scientific data exists about the safety and effectiveness of ashwagandha during pregnancy. Is it advisable to use this vitamin during pregnancy?
Our knowledge of the effects of this plant during pregnancy is limited, however, below is the available information.
For what purpose is it utilised?
Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is an indigenous herb found in India, Africa, and the Middle East. It belongs to the Solanaceae family. For thousands of years, it has been a significant herb in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medical practice.
Traditionally, it has been used to:
Alleviate tension and anxiety
Enhance energy levels and alleviate fatigue. Alleviate pain. Reduce inflammation.
A majority of individuals use ashwagandha in the form of capsules or as a powdered substance blended into a beverage. The medication may be used at any time throughout the day, however, some individuals may want to take it in the evening to enhance their sleep quality.
There is currently no established ashwagandha dose that is supported by clinical studies. According to a study conducted in 2019, it is recommended to take a daily dose of 250-600 mg for the purpose of reducing stress. Several more studies have shown the use of increased doses.
What are the possible advantages?
Advocates of ashwagandha attribute the plant with a range of health advantages, although there is insufficient data to substantiate some claims. However, ashwagandha is mostly used for the following purposes:
In order to alleviate tension. Based on limited research conducted in 2012, when participants were given a dosage of 300 mg twice a day, it was shown that frequent use of ashwagandha may contribute to the reduction of cortisol levels. Consequently, this might potentially lead to a favourable impact on alleviating stress.
In order to alleviate discomfort and minimise the body’s inflammatory response. Ashwagandha is believed to possess analgesic characteristics and may possibly have anti-inflammatory effects. A 2015 study has shown that it may have efficacy in treating rheumatoid arthritis, based on limited research. Nevertheless, this information was derived from a limited-scale trial of brief length and without a control group. Additional research is required to validate these discoveries.
To enhance the quality of sleep. Based on a limited 2020 research with 74 older adults, ashwagandha has shown the potential to enhance sleep quality and cognitive alertness upon awakening.
To enhance physical prowess and optimise athletic abilities. Two recent systematic evaluations, one published in 2020Trusted Source and another in 2021Trusted Source indicate that ashwagandha may have potential benefits in enhancing cardiovascular health and facilitating faster post-workout recovery.
In order to enhance reproductive capacity. According to a 2018 study, the available research is still restricted, but it indicates that ashwagandha could enhance sperm quality in several aspects, potentially raising the likelihood of achieving pregnancy.
While there are many purported advantages of consuming ashwagandha, several of these claims lack sufficient evidence for researchers to establish a definitive link between ashwagandha and the desired result.
Possible adverse reactions
An excess of anything, even beneficial things, maybe a challenge. Ashwagandha is not an exemption. Even in individuals who are normally in good health and not pregnant, the use of excessive dosages of ashwagandha might lead to the occurrence of adverse consequences. Reliable sources include:
Diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, an excessive intake of ashwagandha might, in rare cases, lead to liver damage.
Is it deemed safe for usage during pregnancy?
Due to the absence of dedicated research on the impact of ashwagandha on human pregnancy, it is advisable to refrain from using this supplement during pregnancy as a precautionary measure.
An further worry about the use of ashwagandha during pregnancy is the absence of precise information on the appropriate dose. Although research indicates that excessive use of the supplement might lead to adverse reactions, there is less data about the specific dosage of the herb that qualifies as “excessive” during pregnancy or in other circumstances.
Instead, engage in a conversation with your doctor or healthcare expert on your health issues. Your doctor may provide guidance on the most secure approach to treat your symptom or concern, taking into account your medical history and any other drugs you are currently on.
Certain over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications are deemed suitable for restricted use in addressing issues associated with stress, sleep, pain, and other conditions during pregnancy.
Is it advisable to use ashwagandha before pregnancy?
While higher dosages of ashwagandha have been shown to enhance sperm quality, it remains unclear if it has any positive effects on female fertility.
An evaluation conducted in 2018 reliable authority made many noteworthy observations:
Ashwagandha seems to enhance the equilibrium of female hormones and promote follicle development, based on findings from animal research.
It enhanced sexual function in women, as shown in a human investigation.
Consequently, there is probably no risk in consuming ashwagandha before pregnancy in order to potentially enhance fertility. However, it should not be relied upon as a certain method for achieving conception. Furthermore, it is essential that you discontinue its use in the event that you conceive.
In general, there has been far less scientific investigation conducted on the impact of ashwagandha on female fertility compared to male fertility.
The ultimate conclusion
The efficacy and safety of several herbal drugs, such as ashwagandha, have not been well investigated in pregnant individuals. Hence, it is crucial to consult with your physician prior to using any herbal medicine while pregnant.
Due to the lack of FDA regulation, herbal medications and supplements such as ashwagandha may exhibit variations in their contents and strength.
Prior consultation with a doctor or healthcare expert is recommended before using ashwagandha during pregnancy to ensure safety.
